Things To Do
Makrinitsa Village
Makrinitsa is a picturesque mountain village known for its stone paths, traditional architecture, and panoramic views. There are a number of local shops and restaurants, as well as a wonderful square with views of Volos and the Pagasetic Gulf.
Volos
Volos is Ari's grandmother's home town and is situated by the water on the Pagasetic Gulf, at the foot of Mount Pelion. It is a commercial port with ferry boat connections to the nearby Sporades islands, which include Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos. The town is famous for its tradition of sipping "tsipouro" and eating specialized "mezedes" (tapas), all in a lazy mid-day enjoyment of good company and fun! Modern Volos is built in the area of ancient Iolkos; for those who remember their mythology, this is the homeland of the hero Jason who, together with his Argonauts, sailed in quest of the Golden Fleece! (A replica of their ship, the "Argo," is sometimes on display in the harbor of Volos.)
Chorefto
Chorefto, with its wide stretch of sand and ridiculously clear water, is a Pelion favorite. The village has a number of restaurants and shops as well, in addition to several stretches of organized beaches, offering umbrellas and bar service. (Chorefto also happens to be where Ari’s dad spent every childhood summer with his grandparents and where he hopes to be able to spend a lot more of his time in the near future!)
Agii Saranta Beach
Agii Saranta is considered to be one of the best beaches in Pelion. With crystal clear water, this pristine beach makes for an excellent day trip.
Agios Ioannis
Agios Ioannis is a village and a beach resort on the Aegean coast of Mount Pelion. it is one of the most popular seaside villages in Pelion, featuring three separate beaches of pristine beauty! It has a small port used by fishing boats and yachts and is a mini social hub during the height of summer in July. Three generations of our family have had the immense pleasure of spending some of their summers at a YMCA camp in Agios Ioannis which just celebrated its 101 year anniversary! This is where life-long friendships were formed and it's another reason why this mountain is so special to Ari's family!
Damouchari Beach
Damouchari Beach is a tucked-away, scenic pebble beach known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil setting. The nearby village has a couple of restaurants known for their fish dishes. The beach has become even more famous since a scene from the original "Mamma Mia" movie was filmed there (https://youtu.be/QRoWiTcO7dk?si=H_8k-ee6jVZbI8ba). One of the extras from this scene will be at the wedding!
Milopotamos Beach
A white pebbled beach with exotic crystal water of unique beauty. It is divided by rocks into two sections with a snaky path leading from one part to another. Pine trees are shadowing the path leading to this beautiful beach. Above the beach there is a beach bar and few lovely taverns. The road to Milopotamos passes through the picturesque village of Tsagarada on the eastern side of Pelion.
Skiathos Island
Just a short ferry ride from Volos, Skiathos is the most cosmopolitan of the Sporades Islands. With stunning beaches, a pine forest, a bustling port town, and plenty of night life, Skiathos is the epitome of a Greek island.
Skopelos Island
Skopelos is the true “Mamma Mia" island - almost all of the scenes were filmed there! It is all winding cobblestone streets, hidden beaches, and pine trees that drop straight into the sea.
Meteora
Meteora ("lofty," "elevated") is a unique rock formation hosting one of the most prominent complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries. Twenty-four monasteries were established in the 14th century atop the giant natural pillars and hill-like rounded boulders that dominate the local area and six of these are still active and open to visitors. (Those interested to visit should budget a whole day including the travel to and from.) The Meteora complex was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988 because of its outstanding architecture and beauty, combined with religious and cultural significance.